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Pooler to launch first farmers market this Wednesday

Pooler will welcome its first ever farmers market this Wednesday, a sign of not only the city’s growing population but a shift in demand for more locally grown foods.

The market will be held at the Pooler Recreational Complex from 4-7 p.m., featuring more than a dozen vendors from around the region. From local veggies to meat to roasted coffee and artisan popsicles, the market’s organizers aim to provide something for everyone.

“I think Pooler with all its growth, past and current, I just think it was something that was needed,” said Helia Hall, the market manager. “We wanted to be part of something new and growing.”

Hall said the idea for the market came from Leslie Gallea, whose local nonprofit, Growing Eden’s Education, seeks to increase awareness about local sustainability in the Pooler community.

“It’s been about an 18-month process for Leslie to get this ball rolling,” said Hall. “A lot of the work in getting applications and approvals and our nonprofit status — all of that has been her doing.”

Hall, who lives in Springfield, said the market will complement other area farmers markets such as Forsyth Farmers Market and the Wilmington Island market on Saturdays and Richmond Hill’s on Tuesdays — as well as reach people who may not be able to drive to those other places for locally farmed produce.

Nationwide, the popularity of farmers markets continues to grow as Americans pay closer attention to their diets. Since 2010, the number of markets has increased nearly 33 percent, from 6,132 listings to 8,144, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Vendors who grow certified organic produce will have signs stating such, Hall said, though some farmers also use organic farming practices without pursuing certification.

“Most of our farmers we find are into sustainable farming, using minimal pesticides or fertilizers,” she said. “But customers can always ask if they have a question.”

The Pooler Farmers Market will use a SNAP token system for those with food stamps/EBT, which organizers hope to have up and running by the end of August.

The market will run every Wednesday through Oct. 29 and expects to relaunch in the spring with even more purveyors. Hall said she’s especially grateful to the city of Pooler for letting them set up on their property.

“A lot of people are supportive and excited about it,” said Hall. “It’s going to save them time, save them money and what a great place to get deals on fresh food.”